After a thrilling 16–13 victory over the Badgers, the Oregon Ducks, who are no strangers to creating dynasties, seem to have added another gem to their 2025 recruitment class. At the very top of a 5-star recruit’s food chain are Dan Lanning and his “ducks,” who have a strong 12-0 record. One pledge at a time, they are also winning the future. This commitment has a deeper meaning, though. It’s a tale of faith and gratitude, a reminder that there’s more to life than wins and losses.

According to Steve Wiltfong’s recent On3 video, “Linkon Cure tight end from Kansas committed to Kansas State made it back to Oregon over the weekend talking to his dad talking to sources with knowledge of the recruitment this is setting up well for Oregon at the end of the cycle.” Wiltfong’s statement suggests that Oregon can acquire the coveted offensive lineman, Linkon Cure, from Goodland, Kansas. According to 247Sports, he is a 5-star prospect and the top TE in the 2025 class. In July, Cure made a commitment to Kansas State, Oregon’s Big 12 rival. 

However, according to Steve, “Oregon was trending for Linkon Cure to flip him. They never gave up man, Dan Lanning and Company. They poured a lot into that recruitment. He went and visited him when coaches could be on the road again. This is one of their favorite guys, regardless of position. I think that they’re ultimately going to land him.” Linkon’s performance is respectable in light of this. Cure demonstrated remarkable football talents throughout the 2023 season, hauling in 42 passes for 946 yards and 14 TDs. Because of his performance, he was named to the Kansas 3A All-State team, demonstrating his capacity as a top collegiate player.

This potential was also commended by Steve, who said, “He is a perfect fit for the offense and especially the tight end position.” Given that Kansas State is a home-state team, Linkon would find it difficult to make this flip decision. However, recruiting experts say that Oregon’s performance this year may make him reconsider.

The Oregon Ducks’ ability to flip Linkon Cure is now the key question. Does the program provide enough x factors to increase Linkon’s interest in Oregon? Or is the athlete so exceptional that the program ought to make every effort? 

Can Dan Lanning flip Linkon Cure to Oregon?

When you encounter this question, your immediate thought is that the athlete is so great that the program should do all in its power. Gabe Brooks of 247Sports raves about Cure, calling him a “big, athletic, playmaking tight end.” This guy is a mismatch nightmare for defenses, using his speed and strength to dominate both as a receiver and a blocker. He’s got the skills to make big plays downfield and the power to move defenders in the run game. It’s clear that Cure is a versatile weapon who can do it all.

Cure’s got the skills and the tools to dominate the NFL. His athleticism, football IQ, and potential make him a top draft prospect. Brooks also noted how he enters the senior season as an elite tight end prospect “with high-round NFL Draft upside.” Not just that, “Gifted flex tight end with physical tool and strength capacity to fit all tight end modes at the high-major level, and potentially beyond.” Well, who wouldn’t want him on their roster? He is indeed a special talent, and it’ll be exciting to see if Dan Lanning can land him for the Ducks.